Review into security at Australian security regulated airports

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On 8 August 2017, the Australian Government directed the Inspector of Transport Security to conduct a review into security at Australian security regulated airports.

Outcomes of the review

The Inspector of Transport Security submitted his report into airport security to the Australian Government in late November 2017. During the review, the Inspector of Transport Security requested submissions from airports, major airlines, aviation peak bodies and a number of government departments.

The Government considered the report and its recommendations informed new aviation security measures announced as part of the 2018/19 Budget. Due to the sensitive matters covered in the review, the Inspector of Transport Security’s report will not be made public.

Terms of Reference

It is important that security measures are kept under constant review to ensure they remain appropriate and are adapting to new and emerging issues.

Australian aviation sector plays an important role in providing vital services for many communities, including access to health and education, and supporting economic growth and opportunities in our regions. It is important that we balance the important role airports play in our social and economic wellbeing, against the need to ensure that the overall aviation network remains safe and secure.

The review considers and reports on the security settings and regulatory requirements as they apply to security regulated airports, including if:

Australia's aviation security framework as it applies to major, regional and remote airports is proportionate to the aviation security threat environment known today

The existing airport security arrangements need to be strengthened, and if so, where and how this is most effectively done;

Existing security requirements for airports allow effective responses in cases of heightened threat or new and emerging security issues; and

Any other issues relevant to maintaining and improving the effectiveness of security at Australia's airports.